THIS AVALANCHE ADVISORY EXPIRED ON February 12, 2020 @ 6:26 am
Avalanche Advisory published on February 11, 2020 @ 6:26 am
Issued by Melissa Hendrickson - Idaho Panhandle Avalanche Center

St. Regis Basin/Silver Valley

bottom line

A weak interface with the Feb 1st crust is still reacting to human triggers in some of the shadier locations. Take the time to assess your location to see if this is located where you are riding or sliding.  Expect wind loaded north and east aspects and give them a wide berth while they heal. Weather is stable for the next couple days, so we don't expect the problems to change midweek. 

How to read the advisory

St. Regis Basin/Silver Valley

How to read the advisory

A weak interface with the Feb 1st crust is still reacting to human triggers in some of the shadier locations. Take the time to assess your location to see if this is located where you are riding or sliding.  Expect wind loaded north and east aspects and give them a wide berth while they heal. Weather is stable for the next couple days, so we don't expect the problems to change midweek. 

2. Moderate

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Above Treeline
Heightened avalanche conditions on specific terrain features. Evaluate snow and terrain carefully; identify features of concern.

2. Moderate

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Near Treeline
Heightened avalanche conditions on specific terrain features. Evaluate snow and terrain carefully; identify features of concern.

1. Low

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Below Treeline
Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.
    Heightened avalanche conditions on specific terrain features. Evaluate snow and terrain carefully; identify features of concern.
Avalanche Problem 1: Persistent Slab
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Stability tests are still showing signs of weakness on the weak snow associated with the crust from Feb 1st.  This is worse on the north aspects where the sun hasn't had the chance to help stabilize with melt/freeze cycles.  Take the time to check the snow by digging a quick pit to see if you are getting propagation on this layer if you are thinking about anything bigger on the north sides.  When you dig down, the ice layer will be pretty apparent around a foot deep in most locations and you will easily see if there is weak snow above or below it. Make sure to test it thoroughly!  The calm weather forecasts over the next several days will help to stabilize this layer. 

Avalanche Problem 2: Wind Slab
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We've recieved only small storms in the past couple of days, but the snow has been light density accompanied by stronger winds.  Expect to find wind slabs on the NW-E aspects on leeward terrain.  Wind slabs look chalky in color and sound hollow. 

advisory discussion

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Weather and CURRENT CONDITIONS
Two-Day Mountain Weather Forecast Produced in partnership with the Spokane NWS
For 2000 ft. to 4000 ft.
Tuesday Tuesday Night Wednesday
Weather: Chance flurries Mostly Cloudy Mostly Cloudy
Temperatures: 37 deg. F. 26 deg. F. 36 deg. F.
Wind Direction: W W Calm
Wind Speed: 6-10 5 0
Expected snowfall: 0 in. 0 in. 0 in.
For 4000 ft. to 6000 ft.
Tuesday Tuesday Night Wednesday
Weather: Chance Snow and Breezy Chance Flurries Chance Flurries
Temperatures: 28 deg. F. 19 deg. F. 27 deg. F.
Wind Direction: SW W W
Wind Speed: 18-21, G33 8-14, G23 6-11
Expected snowfall: 0 in. 0 in. 0 in.
Disclaimer

Avalanche conditions change for better or worse continually. Backcountry travelers should be prepared to assess current conditions for themselves, plan their routes of travel accordingly, and never travel alone. Backcountry travelers can reduce their exposure to avalanche hazards by utilizing timbered trails and ridge routes and by avoiding open and exposed terrain with slope angles of 30 degrees or more. Backcountry travelers should carry the necessary avalanche rescue equipment such as a shovel, avalanche probe or probe ski poles, a rescue beacon and a well-equipped first aid kit.  For a recorded version of the Avalanche Advisory call (208)765-7323.